A HISTORIC summer spot in New York City is back and making waves after receiving a sophisticated $19 million renovation.
Despite the expensive upgrade, the attraction is completely free for the public to enter and offers a front-row seat to the city’s iconic Hell Gate Bridge.
The Astoria Pool reopened in June after a year-long hiatus for upgrades.
It’s a historic place that many New Yorkers hold near and dear.
According to New York City Department of Parks and Recreationhas a history pertinent to athletes of yesteryear.
In 1936 and 1964, Astoria Pool hosted the Olympic trials for the U.S. diving and swimming teams.
OLD FAITHFUL
New York City Parks Commissioner Sue Donoghue explained the importance of the renovation in a press release.
“Our free outdoor pools are incredible amenities for New Yorkers looking to cool off, have fun, swim and exercise,” she said in a statement.
“We are excited to reopen the iconic Astoria Pool following an $18.9 million reconstruction project.
“And we continue to further improve our city’s pool infrastructure through a recently announced capital investment of more than a billion dollars over five years.
“We look forward to seeing New Yorkers have fun this summer at our pools across the city.”
Mayor Eric Adams praised the reopening in a press release, calling it an oasis for New Yorkers to make noise.
“New York City’s pools and beaches are incredible places for New Yorkers to gather, learn to swim and beat the heat,” he said.
He noted that recent heat waves make the reopening even more welcome.
“We are making an impact with our billion-dollar investment over five years that will open more and better pools across all five boroughs for working-class New Yorkers to freely use,” Mayor Adams continued.
“This is how we make New York City a more livable place for everyone who is lucky enough to call the greatest city in the world home.”
Some city officials are excited to try the pool for themselves.
“Public pools are fantastic – and fun – options that help New Yorkers beat the heat,” said New York City Emergency Management Commissioner Zach Iscol.
“This investment in our city’s pools will provide New Yorkers with summer fun, exercise and a respite from the heat.
“I applaud this huge commitment and look forward to diving in.”
Updates include a new pool deck, lighting and pool structure.
It also has an all-new filtration system and other additions to keep it running.
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